Tourism in Antarctic Continent

Explore notable sights and destinations in this country

Antarctica / Antarctica

Tourist attractions

South Pole (Amundsen–Scott Station)

Region: South Pole

Natural

The southernmost point on Earth. Two markers exist—the true geographic pole and the ceremonial pole—popular for commemorative photos.

Antarctic Peninsula

Region: West Antarctica

Natural

Relatively temperate with abundant wildlife, the most visited region by cruise ships. Glacial and mountain landscapes are breathtaking.

Lemaire Channel

Region: Antarctic Peninsula

Natural

Scenic passage nicknamed 'Iceberg Alley.' Towering rock walls and floating ice create stunning photo opportunities.

Deception Island

Region: South Shetland Islands

Natural

Active submarine volcanic caldera connected to open sea forming a natural harbor. Black sand beaches offer geothermal warm water bathing.

Ross Island McMurdo Station Area

Region: Ross Sea

Modern Architecture

Largest research station with historic Scott's Hut and Cape Crozier Emperor penguin colony highlights.

Drake Passage

Region: Between South America and Antarctica

Natural

Known as one of the world's roughest seas—a challenging maritime gateway. Entry point for wildlife observation.

Taylor Dry Valleys

Region: Victoria Land

Natural

Rare ice- and snow-free 'polar desert' in Antarctica. Noted for Mars-analogous environment.

Lake Vostok Drilling Site

Region: East Antarctic Plateau

Scientific Heritage

Borehole to massive freshwater lake beneath 4km-thick ice sheet. Symbol of paleoenvironmental research.

Port Lockroy Post Office

Region: Goudier Island

Cultural Heritage

Former British military base converted to one of the world's southernmost post offices. Tourists can obtain limited edition stamps.

Cooper Bay Glacier Front

Region: South Georgia Island

Natural

Rare spot where massive glacier and tens of thousands of king penguins breeding site can be seen together.

Suggested itineraries

Antarctic Peninsula Classic Cruise

Duration (days): 10

Highlights: Drake Passage crossing, Lemaire Channel, Deception Island landing, Zodiac boat glacier viewing

Most popular Antarctic introduction route departing from Ushuaia, Argentina. Compact experience of wildlife and spectacular scenery.

Antarctic Circle Crossing Voyage

Duration (days): 14

Highlights: Cross 66°33′S, Crystal Sound navigation, Camping experience

Adventurous plan crossing southern tip of peninsula into Antarctic Circle. Weather-dependent pack ice breakthrough attempts.

South Pole Day-Trip Flight

Duration (days): 1

Highlights: Cape Town charter flight, 90-minute stay at South Pole, Champagne toast

Fastest VIP experience for time-constrained travelers. High cost but provides pole-reaching certificate.

Travel tips

  • Arrange travel through trusted IAATO-member operators
  • Layered clothing essential as wind chill drastically lowers perceived temperature
  • Take seasickness medication before Drake Passage transit
  • Electronic devices rapidly drain batteries in cold; prepare spares and insulated pouches
  • Prevent snow blindness with sunglasses and UV-blocking goggles
  • Waterproof gloves and boots protect against meltwater during landings
  • Carry biodegradable shampoo and soap for environmental protection
  • Tourist guidelines include maximum 1-hour continuous land stay, up to 100 people per landing site
  • Drone photography is prohibited or under strict permit requirements
  • Emergency medical facilities are limited; carry medical certificates if you have pre-existing conditions

Back to list